Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Very impressed with this machine. Any story you may have read about difficulty in set up are over-stated. Sure you need some time; but, all in all, it was a snap to put together. Highly recommended. Quiet, easy to put away. STRONG! [...]

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I bought this rowing machine when my treadmill was out of action waiting for a new motherboard.

I liked that the Kettler is basically mechanical. The electronics are just advisory displays, counting strokes and time. Any outage would not stop a workout. I also like the idea of mixing in a more total body cardiovascular workout from time to time, alternating with the treadmill.

For years I've used motor driven treadmills and steppers. These pace the exercise so there is no need to pay attention to the speed - I can watch TV or just daydream. The rower lacks such machine pacing. I solved this by using a piano metronome. Soon it became natural to match the start and end of each row with the beat.

The full body motion of the rowing machine definitely gets the heart pumping. I reach target pulse more quickly than on the treadmill. The rowing effort is actually highest when first starting the workout - the resistance of the rowing arm dampers reduces as they get warmer. So I go half-speed for a 5 minute warm-up period, after which the resistance pretty much levels out. Be aware that the dampers can get very hot by the end of a 20 minute session - keep kids away.

At first I used a dolly to wheel the machine to a closet between workouts. But my wife didn't mind the look of it in the middle of the rec room floor, so we keep it there. It does have an attractive sculptural form.

Overall, the machine is smart, well though-out, smooth and solid. Have had no electronic or mechanical problems at all.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Excellent product for overall fitness, only problem is the squeaking during use

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Difficult to set up - minor parts missing - no directions for use of monitor.

Excellent workout - adjustable resistance on pistons a great feature - movement of arms works more muscles than traditional rower

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Great rower, most use I've gotten out of any exersize machine, but I just broke my second set of footrests in two years.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Great for compact spaces, good workout. Only cons would be noise and hard to get on and off of.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Wonderful, sturdy, quiet, a truly great workout. But a bit hard to assemble and the directions could be a easier to understand.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This is my 3rd rower in over 30 years (wore the others out) and has the most realistic rowing motion and is very quiet. [...]

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This is a very well built machine. I've been a tool and diemaker for 30 years and I know quality when I see it. This is it. [...]was fairly easy to assemble.[...]

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This rower is such a nice piece of equipment, I can't find anything that needs to be improved. I use it almost every day for thirty minutes and i actually look forward to the time. The handles move like real oars instead of being back and forth like most machines I have seen, and they can move one at a time so you can take a drink of water without stopping your workout. I love this machine.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This rower is easy for anyone who wants something different to use instead of the usual treadmill,eliptical.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Very well made piece of equipment. Not having a lot of experience with rowing I am still struggling to get the rhythm correct. The instructions are vague.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Having put many things together, I had no trouble with this machine, but I could see it being confusing for people not used to assembly required things. The machine is great though, quiet, not too big, and it gives me something really different to do during my regular workout.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The only negative I can think of is when you are rowing fast it slides across the floor even with a mat under it.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The Kettler is just like rowing a real boat. The motions mimic exactly oars in oarlocks. I try to use it every day. It is far superior to any other equipment I have tried. I highly recommend it. It is very sturdy. It looks and feels like it will last forever.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I live in Southern California. My machine stays outside which is great for my workouts.

I am not concerned about the machine being outside because it is a very sturdy, heavy duty machine.


All I do is throw a tarp over it after I've finished.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I use this rowing machine to help tone and build endurance for motocross riding. It does a very good job of working my core, arms and thighs. The only gripe I have is that the machine does not measure in calories, it measures in joules - you have to manually convert.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Good for daily exercise. Good substitute for being on the water. Screw holding handle on is coming loose, and I can't figure out how to tighten it.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The instructions are in German, so you need to be able to set up with just the diagrams (took about 45 mins after verifying all parts there). The rower is relatively quiet, I do like better than others because the motion is more like actual rowing. Arms fold in, but not exactly one you can put under the bed. Takes up about 2 feet X 5 feet when arms are down.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The product overall is great, but the straps on the feet could be better made. I had to replace them after a few months. Other wise this is a great work out amd well made.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Used it 5 days a week for 45 minutes each session. After about 6 months, the factory attached hand grip came off due to a stripped screw. I had trouble getting that fixed, but otherwise, this is an great workout machine.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

My work out is with the rower, light weights and calasthenics three days a week. I use the rower for overall warm-up then cario-strenght finish, where it does a very good job.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I was 270lbs at 5’6” and miserable. I’ve always loved rowing. But, not boat. Not one that would hold my 270 lbs.

I purchased the rowing machine because it would be a low impact highly aerobic exercise for me. Between rowing and now bike riding I’m getting the exercise I need to be healthy and have fun.

I am able to maneuver on the American and the Sacramento Rivers in my new kyack without problems.

My Kettler Rowing machine is sturdy, easy and fun to use with a great variety of exercise programs I have developed for working on all parts of my body. This is a GREAT machine.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

After about 15mins on the hardest setting it gets too easy. I stopped using it after a couple of months, for someone who works out often its not challenging enough. For someone who is out of shape and needs a gentle introduction too cardio its probably a good choice

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I love the machine. The only drawbacks about it are: the fact that it does not really give your legs a good workout ( a higher incline might improve this part); somewhat noisy.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I really enjoy this machine it has fluid motion to it and feels similiar to the acutally rowing of a boat. I also like the fact that when I am done with a workout it is compacted and easy to store away. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good workout.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The major frame pieces connect by inserting four bolts in four holes near the front of the assembly after the unit is aligned at the rear. No sweat. However, on my unit the holes were all off point by 1/2 inch. To assemble the unit I had to carefully and precisely drill 4 bolt holes through the thick metal frame. I did not realize this was an issue until the unit was entirely unboxed, so the idea of repacking it and returning was simply not realistic. (By the way, I am an experienced assembler of these kinds of products, this is NOT a case of user error.) This kind of manufacturing snafu is unacceptable and speaks to extremely poor standards at the factory.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

It was not what I expected! To be honest,I feel like it's a lower grade than I spent my Hard earned money on.I'm not trying to complain,but I feel it was a lessor grade than I was led to believe.Less Sturdy,A little Noisier than I imagined,it doesn't flow the way thought and is very uncomfortable.If I had it to do over - I would have spent alot more money on a better machine.One that offers better comfort and dependability.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Comfortable workout. Not boring like 'pull on a rope' rowing machines. Mimicks skulling motions well.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

this is a great fitness tool

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Of the piston rowing machines, the motion on this one is the most like rowing. I wish that it had a little more resistance. I row for one hour six days a week. I do 1700 reps an hour. It is a good workout, but I wish it was more strenuous. It is sturdy but parts do wear out and break, but you can order replacement parts through Kettler. I replace the pistons about every six months. I have recommended this machine to many of my friends. I have had my rowinf machine for three years.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Normally I'm cynical about exercise equipment. But I was pleasantly suprised by this product.

Everything was there, no damage, and went together in about 30 minutes using the tools included. If I'd used a ratchet it probably would have been more like 10 minutes. The instruction's diagrams were 90% idiot-proof, the remaining 10% would require a determined idiot. The instructions are in multiple languages.

The quality of the machining and hardware (the frames and nuts/bolts) were of high quality, no sharp edges or burrs. The threading on the bolts was good, there wasn't a single case where I was afraid I might cross-thread a nut. The paint finish was great, with no scratches, bubbles, painted over debris, or "missed spots".

Now, on to the uses:
I have to say, having tried several other rowers from the cheapest to the quite expensive, this is the only one that really simulates rowing. All the rest should be called Rope-yankers, or Line-tuggers. Pulling on a string isn't sculling or rowing.

Flat out I think this is the best piece of exercise equipment I've ever bought or used.

You can do low-tension, aerobic workouts, with little stress on your joints, or you can focus on strength conditioning, with the adjustable suprisingly quiet shocks.

By not bending your knees, you can focus on your back, by not bending the spine you can focus on arms, shoulders, and legs. It's easy to go 1-armed for waist muscle workouts.

It folds for storage, easy to fold up, and suprisingly compact once you lay the arms across the center frame.

The only less than perfect thing is the computer display, which has german names on the cover, for energy, counts, time, and pulse. But the english equivalent actually shows up on the lcd display, so it's no biggie.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

great machine; easily assembled; my wife says the lowest resistance setting is too difficult.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

less boring than other rowers. I have a bad knee and this is no problem.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Disappointed that warranty did not cover defective left shock after less than 6 months of use four times per week. Understand that it is a wear and tear item, but should have lasted longer.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Assembly requires an average mechanical ability. All parts were in the package and everything fit perfectly. Machine seems to be very sturdy and durable. It operates smoothly and is very quiet.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This rower came in perfect shape, no scratches. It took very little time to put together, and we were off and rowing quickly! The seat is sturdy and comfortable. The way the arms of the rower sit to your sides really does mimic true rowing, there is play in the arms making them move up and down slightly, which allows you to row with the "oars" high near your chest, or low near your stomach. The resistance is great, 12 levels, and you really can get a good stretch on your lats, and it actually works the rear delts and middle back area, also traps! Your hamstrings will burn after the first few times, but will make your hammys really strong and defined. The monitor works great too. I highly recommend the extra cash needed to get this rower, but it is very sturdy German craftsmanship and design, and I feel like we'll be rowing on this machine for many years. Enjoy!!

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

GOOD PRODUCT FOR OVER ALL WORKOUT. FOOTS STRAPS COULD BE IMPROVED AND MONITOR NEEDS BETTER WAY TO BE ATTACHED.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I look forward to using my rower over my other exercise equipment!!!!!! Better than the elipitical

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

great machine if you have limited space

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

best overall peice of workout equipment I have ever purchased, I use it for weight loss & strength & I love to get up in the morning & get to work on my rower. Their are a few cons, the seat needs to be a little bigger & the seat needs more padding. the setup is basic instructions so they need to illistrate the set up better, but I just used common sence & looked at the box to set it up. I give this machine 2 thumbs up & recommend this to any one who wants to lose weight & tone your body.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I have chronic fatigue, need engaging exercise that I can measure out carefully to avoid post-exercise collapse. The rowing motion has been ideal---similar in value to XC skiing, roller skating. I am 6 feet tall and don't hit the limit of adjustment. My 5' 2" wife likes it a lot, too. Needs a floor pad.

The first few sessions need to go slow to get the technique. It takes substantially more co-ordination than a bike trainer or elliptical or stepper. But the co-ordination demands are good for me---I tend to pass out from neurally induced hypotension during simple exercise such as biking or running. I need the complexity to keep up circulation.

Computer/heart-monitor are a bit tricky to understand while exercising. Computer falls off easily when moving the machine.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I use this product for a cardio workout and light strength training. The technique takes a little getting used to, but relatively easy to pick up (especially if you have rowed on water before). Setup was moderately difficult - it took me a little over an hour and I ended up using my own tools. Directions are picture only, but not too bad to follow. Comfort is good and the machine is very quiet. I also have small basement and this fits perfectly. When it is folded up I can put it again the wall in a corner (but it weighs around 60lbs so not easy to move from room to room or anything). I'm 6'3" and this rower could accomodate someone much taller than me. On board monitor is relatively easy to use and tracks your pulse nicely. Difficulty settings take a little to get just right, but definitely provide a tough work out on the top levels.

Overall a great rower!

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Well worth the money, no problems with my rower. I'm very happy i decided to get one.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Great home exercise machine. The Kettler Rower is sturdy, smooth, quiet, and of quality construction. However, this machine does not easily pack and store.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Perfect machine for overall fitness including weight loss. I have been using this rowing machine 4 times a week for over a year. I have had no problems and it continues to be sturdy and effective.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Best investment I made other than law school. Perfect all around machine. Combined with Schwinn DX900 takes care of all cardio.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

This product is affordable, compact, sturdy, and functions much like actual rowing. I am tall and it fits me perfectly. The operation is smooth and, as long as you position yourself properly, you can achieve an awesome full-body workout very easily. Also, there are numerous resistance adjustments which make it easy to work out at your desired level. Great product for the price!

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

I use my rowing machine mainly for Strength Training and to be in good shape. I am also looking foward to losing weight in the process. I definitely do recommend this rowing machine.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Nice product!! Very easy to use and can be used in a dual purpose setting. The machine can build muscle as well as be good for cartio.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

The machine is extremely easy to assemble. It is sturdy and reliable. I've been using it for over a year. It provides in 40 minutes a good work out. It is quiet enough you can listen to your favorite radio station while rowing. Only a little wd40 will keep the oars well tuned. The resistance on the oars is at first a little awkward to figure out but no BD. Excellent product.

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Needed something for the winter months Ideal

I have bad knees and using the rowing machine gives me a low knee strain workout

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

Your foot straps are hard to use, if you start to move back and grab the computer read out it pops right off

Comments about Kettler Kettler Kadett Rowing Machine:

My fitness program consists mostly of running, cycling, hiking and canoeing. I needed more upper-body work, but am mostly interested in aerobic workouts rather then strength training. The Kettler Kadett is well-designed and built, and provides a great aerobic workout for arms, chest, back and legs. I can work out at home, even when the weather's bad, or it's late, or I just don't feel like going some where, so now I exercise more often.